Skillet Lemon-Butter Salmon Asparagus

Succulent salmon fillets and tender asparagus are seared in a zesty lemon-butter sauce for a bright, cozy dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights and bursting with fresh citrus flavor.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite after the first time I made it whenever I wanted something flavorful yet easy.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: 4 fillets about 6 oz each skin-on or skinless
• Asparagus: 1 lb 450 g fresh trimmed
• Lemon: 1 zested and juiced
• Garlic cloves: 2 minced
• Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Sea salt: 1/2 tsp plus more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/4 tsp
• Lemon slices: for serving
• Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped

Instructions

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

Check price on Amazon

Step 1:

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2:

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3:

Add asparagus and sauté for 3 4 minutes turning occasionally until just tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove asparagus to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 4:

Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Place salmon fillets skin-side down if using skin-on and cook for 3 4 minutes without moving until the skin is crispy and the bottom is golden.

Step 5:

Flip the salmon and add remaining butter minced garlic lemon zest and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 2 3 minutes spooning the melted lemon-butter over the top as it cooks.

Step 6:

Pour in lemon juice and simmer for 1 2 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and the sauce is glossy.

Step 7:

Return asparagus to the skillet nestling around the salmon. Warm through for 1 minute.

Step 8:

Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

Check price on Amazon

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

Check price on Amazon

Save Pin

This dish always brings everyone to the table and fills the kitchen with wonderful aromas making for special family moments.

Required Tools

Large skillet Tongs or spatula Zester or grater Measuring spoons Knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains fish and dairy butter For dairy-free option substitute butter with plant-based alternative Always check labels for hidden allergens

Nutritional Information

Calories 380 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 7 g Protein 35 g

Save Pin

Easily spray or drizzle oil for roasting vegetables, air frying, sautéing, and dressing salads with controlled coverage.

Check price on Amazon

This skillet lemon-butter salmon with asparagus is the perfect quick and delicious meal to brighten your dinner routine.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the salmon cooks evenly?

Pat salmon dry before cooking and use medium heat. Avoid moving fillets too early to develop a crispy skin and cook through evenly.

→ Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?

Green beans or broccolini work well as alternatives, offering similar texture and flavor when sautéed.

→ What is the best way to brighten the sauce?

Fresh lemon zest and juice added towards the end create a vibrant, zesty flavor that balances the butter richness.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this meal?

Serving with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread complements the flavors and soaks up the lemon-butter sauce perfectly.

→ How can I make a dairy-free version?

Replace unsalted butter with plant-based alternatives to maintain richness without dairy.